Robbie Keane future as Spurs skipper under threat

Out in the cold: Robbie Keane is facing the biggest punishment over the party

Harry Redknapp could strip Robbie Keane of the Tottenham captaincy for his role in organising a Christmas party against his wishes.

Redknapp will remind his players of their responsibilities today, as well as issuing fines which could reach a total of £1million to the 16 players who went to Dublin two weeks ago.

Redknapp has confirmed that any financial penalties will be given to charity but it is Keane who has the most reason to be concerned. He was made captain, with Ledley King remaining club skipper, when he rejoined Spurs from Liverpool last January. Yet with the Irishman left on the bench and King injured, defender Michael Dawson led the team to victories over Manchester City and Blackburn.

Dawson has impressed his manager on and off the field since Redknapp took charge 14 months ago, and may now be handed the armband more regularly. Keane, meanwhile, may even leave Spurs for a second time next month, with Sunderland, Aston Villa and Celtic all interested.

Redknapp's side recorded their second win in four days with a 2-0 triumph at Ewood Park on Saturday, but it has been a difficult few days for the 62-year-old.

Redknapp has learned that Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs will bring charges against him in relation to the long-running investigation into corruption in football, and described the development as "farcical".